Attorneys representing clients at an arbitration hearing should review all appropriate court rules and procedures before engaging in the practice of law at mandatory arbitrations. The Illinois Supreme Court has stated that an arbitration hearing is to be seen as a final resolution of a case and not simply a hurdle to overcome on the way to a trial. Although less intimidating than a jury trial, mandatory arbitration hearings are formal court proceedings, and it is important to know the law and follow it to the letter to represent your client effectively.